Determination of yield and quality characteristics of local watermelon genotypes (Citrullus lanatus) grown in Diyarbakır

This study was carried out to determine some agricultural characteristics and yield values of the local watermelon genotypes of Diyarbakır, Sürme, Beyazkış, Karakış, Pembe and Ergani genotype used as witnesses. In order to determine some agricultural characteristics of genotypes, the criteria recommended for watermelon and some reference values were taken into consideration, especially by UPOV, the Tohumluk Tescil ve Sertifikasyon Merkez Müdürlüğü (TTSM). Study; measurements and observations were taken in seeds, seedlings, plants and fruits. As a result of the study, the largest watermelons in terms of weight were obtained in the Sürme genotype with an average of 18.95 kg, while the highest amount of soluble dry matter in the fruit juice was obtained in the Karakış and Beyazkış (9.0%) genotypes. As a result of the study, dense fiber structure was observed in the Pembe and Sürme genotypes. Ergani genotype has proven to be the genotype that can meet these characteristics in order to offer a level of consumption-oriented advice in terms of eating habits, small family structure and core content. Sürme genotype, one of the local watermelon genotypes in Diyarbakır, is common in the region compared to other genotypes. Characterization study, which is the first step to protect other genotypes, especially the Sürme genotype, to determine the morphological features of the genotypes and also to maintain their production, was carried out with this study. It is thought that this study will prepare the ground for breeding programs in the next period. In addition, it is thought that sufficient data has been obtained to obtain the "geographical indication" document for these genotypes in order to preserve and record other genotypes of the "geographical indication" document obtained in the name of Sürme. As a result of this study, it is thought that the reproduction material that needs to be re-expanded in the breeding of Beyazkış, Karakış and Pembe genotypes that are not found in producers other than Sürme. Keywords: Diyarbakır, Watermelon, Morphology Characterization.